1425

Documented Battery D 5th U.S. Artillery Colt Model Single Action Army Revolver

Currency:USD Category:Antiques / Firearms & Armory Start Price:0.00 USD Estimated At:6,500.00 - 8,500.00 USD
Documented  Battery D 5th U.S. Artillery Colt Model Single Action Army Revolver
From 1895 to 1903 a number of "US" marked Single Action Army revolvers, like this one, were returned to either the Colt factory or Springfield Armory, (this revolver is documented as having gone to Colt), where they were modified (to 5 1/2 inch barrel length), dismantled and refinished, often with little regard to which gun the refinished parts came from, resulting in a mix of serial numbers and markings. These revolvers have a 5 1/2 inch barrel, casehardened frame and blue cylinder, grip frame and barrel. The serial numbers are mixed on these altered models and they were remarked by inspectors of the era. This revolver is serial numbered "56660" on the frame, "133253" on the trigger guard, and the backstrap and cylinder are un-numbered. The frame is marked "D.F.C." above the serial number. The top of the barrel is marked with the one line address, the left side "45 COLT" and the left side of the frame is marked with the three line, three patent dates followed by U.S.". The loading gate is un-numbered. It has the later style oval ejector rod head, standard blade front and frame notch rear sights and is fitted with smooth one piece walnut grips absent of any cartouche and stamped with a small "R.A.C." on the bottom of the left side. This revolver is listed by the serial number "56660" on page 122 of "Colt Cavalry and Artillery Revolvers... A Continuing Study" as one of 85 Artillery revolvers shipped from Colt to the commanding officer of Battery "D" 5th U.S. Artillery, Ft. Sheridan, Illinois on February 20, 1901. Copy of the page is included.
BBL: 5 1/2 inch round
Stock:
Gauge: 45 Long Colt
Finish: blue/casehardened
Grips: walnut
Serial Number: 56660
Condition: Fine as Colt factory refurbished. The revolver retains 70% blue finish with overall thinning and high edge wear and a smooth gray patina on the front and back straps. There are a few minor scratches on the barrel. The frame retains 50% of the case colors mixed with a mottled gray patina. The grips are fine as reoiled with a few small minor dings and scratches. The bottom of the butt has no markings. The markings are crisp and clear. The action is excellent.